Across the nation on Wednesday, July 18, 2018, concerned citizens will peacefully assemble with a candlelight vigil at sundown to reflect on their Congressional leadership and renew their commitment to fight for democracy.

From attacks on the rule of law to conflicts of interest, ethics violations, and flagrant abuse of government offices for personal gain, the corruption of the American government by the President, his associates, and many in his party has reached a profound low. Officials are trading on the power invested in our institutions for personal and financial gain rather than for the welfare of the American people.

Representative Brat is among the worst offenders. He has attacked the Russia investigation, belittled the free press, and supports xenophobic rhetoric and policies, such as the Muslim Ban, border wall, and hyperbolic “chain migration.” Further, he supports a Constitutional Convention to reshape the United States for conservative gain, supported white supremacist Richard Spencer’s right to hate speech, and even hired people to troll his own constituents on social media. There seems to be no moral bottom in his attempt to hold ground with ultra conservative and even alt right members of the Republican Party.

Alongside MoveOn.org, Together We Will Henrico and VA 7th USA, will not stand idly by as Rep. Brat is complicit in making immigrants political prisoners, manipulating voting districts for specific outcomes, and altering the face of this Country to serve a privileged few. At the Vigil we will reject attempts to shield those who shield corruption from consequences, scrutiny, and legal accountability and we will hold fast to the basic tenets of our democracy–that all people are deserving of respect, are created equal, and are protected and accountable under the law. We will follow the Vigil with a call to action on Thursday that lets Rep. Brat know that the people of VA 7th expect representation with a conscience.